ATTENTION: FIRE OFFICER 1 (FO1) APPLICANTS Psychological Assessment and Drug Test

ATTENTION: FIRE OFFICER 1 (FO1) APPLICANTS Psychological Assessment and Drug Test 1. List of Fire Officer 1 (FO1) applicants who successfully passed the Complete Background Investigation (CBI) and are hereby directed to proceed to the designated date, time, and venue for the conduct of Psychological Assessment and Drug Test, to wit: EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE No. Applicant’s Name 1 Abadesco, Romelyn Ortiz 2 Antonino, Marian Beth Lascano 3 Ardeña, Andrei Fritz Solis 4 Balais, Franklin Basas 5 Barte, Merry Joy Nillosa 6 Camacho, Ian Paulo Magrare 7 Caragos, Lorenz Dolor 8 Denosta, Kheynith John Anthony Pedregosa 9 Dillo, Lanna Guanzon 10 Divinagracia, Freneth Mae Ochong 11 Estrella, Thomas Polbe 12 Gahupo, Niel John Villaruz 13 Guiza, Anne Rency Machitar 14 Ledesma, Miguel Villaruz 15 Lingamen, Bryan Gonzales 16 Mercado, Emeline Villanueva 17 Miavalles, Andrew Griengo 18 Panizales, Kevin John Guilaran 19 Punsalan, Andrea Gomez 20 Red, Jaime Stevens Jumaquio 21 Sansaet, James Aerol Segador 22 Sarmiento, Stephen Fetiza 23 Sibaya, Edmund Tongga 24 Sorrilla, Nimrod Catedrilla 25 Valles, John Christopher Bolilan REGULAR FORCE No. Applicant’s Name 1 Alberto, Edilyn Farinas 2 Alcarde, Ramon Girao 3 Alibay, Michael Genon 4 Aliligay, Reanne Joy Hisugan 5 Allones, Jun Rey Caldimon 6 Amparo, John Timothy Wasawas 7 Antaran, Ryl Feb Lambo 8 Aponte, Gero Mykel Albaladejo 9 Ardeño, Ace Zapansa 10 Arguelles, Benny Valeña 11 Arroyo, Ernesto Dumancas 12 Baldovino, Yuannel Roaehr De Guzman 13 Balmis, Christian Lloyd Barrera 14 Barrientos, Faith Valaquio 15 Bedo, Alexis Deanon 16 Bejidor, Jerlyn Esmane 17 Bernardo, Bryan Rosy 18 Biolanguez, John Paul Estolloso 19 Bosque, Edre Anthony Gabajeron 20 Burata, Iyra Besana 21 Cabanig, Gabriel Llera 22 Cabrera, Edver John Grecia 23 Cabutad, Jhon Philip Iv Amande 24 Calasagsag, Kurt Danielle Hupanda 25 Cambas, Jay Mark Abismo 26 Casador, Kyne Joseph Jambre 27 Casaquite, Mark Jhon Camare 28 Casiple, Edmarl June Latorza 29 Cerrada, Bj Bernola 30 Cioco, Brayan Pelonia 31 Coronado, Rommel Apolinario 32 Cusay, Haziel Moises 33 Dabi, Cherry Mel Jaboneta 34 Daprinal, Aian Mark N/A 35 Degala, Gaea Fay Abarides 36 Delos Santos, Owen Ken Yngcong 37 Deocampo, Mark Anthony Tamon 38 Descarial, Jefferson Marcasote 39 Divinagracia, Zyrene Buenacosa 40 Dorado, John Mark Martirez 41 Dujali, Markle Aguirre 42 Dumagpi, Francis Lery Palencia 43 Dumancas, Gerald Taba 44 Ecubeza, Rexlie John Ramos 45 Erodias, Johanna Mae Malicse 46 Escorido, Ranel Pauchano 47 Esguerra, Manuel Manansala 48 Esmalde, Stephen John Abainza 49 Esomadia, Dave Rusel Dili 50 Estrivo, Giselle Ann Rodriguez 51 Fabillo, John Paul Valdez 52 Farinas, Criza Garcimo 53 Flojo, Arbues Pastrana 54 Flotildes, John Reven Deciembre 55 Gagnao, Chris Adrian Ferrer 56 Galleca, Daryl John Mosquera 57 Gamboa, Eric John Diaz 58 Gamuza, Francis Angelo Libertad 59 Gange, Eric Paul Solina 60 Gayotin, Jaymon Arojo 61 Gelito, Jasper Ian Grafane 62 Gonzaga, Resyl Joy Gange 63 Humpay, Kiara Nicole Hingras 64 Jacinto, Diosdado Tilla-In 65 Jamolin, Marco Eivind Fetalvero 66 Jucaban, J’Ron Russ Silvestre 67 Langote, Lords James Muyco 68 Lapidez, Troy Zyan Lozada 69 Launio, Jhannel Artates 70 Lorania, Jecky Hanes Corpus 71 Macahilig, John Nicholes Ureta 72 Machon, Emmanuel Martin Maypa 73 Magahin, Jake Obice 74 Mahinay, Carl David Catamin 75 Mahinay, Roche Christian Sinfuego 76 Malicse, John Arthur Raymundo 77 Marquez, Rachel May Magsipoc 78 Melocotones, Eliza Mae Basañes 79 Mesias, Nikko Gabriel Divinagracia 80 Molo, Dellinger Taba 81 Morillo, Jeff Balatongan 82 Mosquera, Annie Bolyn Edisan 83 Navarro, Jeremiah Songano 84 Nieves, John Cris Sedano 85 Obsanga, Mary Rose Zamora 86 Ocampo, Primrose Baleña 87 Oloroso, Mark Bryan Valenzuela 88 Omega, Danielle Jhon Tevdcian Sabelo 89 Osano, Zhayeen Camayodo 90 Padios, Jimhes Matrido 91 Panes, Cherlyn Grace Panes 92 Panganiban, Bhymar Balsomo 93 Panigua, John Rey Dexter Gallarde 94 Panoga, Jan Rey Cayetana 95 Pollicar, Joshua Anthony Hipertor 96 Quimsing, Patrixia Joy Caceres 97 Roquero, Joebert Songcog 98 Saavedra, John Razel Fabillo 99 Sabando, Kyla Arguelles 100 Saber, Gynel Ace Erta 101 Sabran, Clemar Jelms N/A 102 Sabusap, Vonnn Einuj Anre Pingoy 103 Salmorin, Boni Sison 104 Selorio, Ken Reinhart Barroa 105 Seranio, Larry Calumag 106 Sigue, Cristine Joy Villarosa 107 Sitchon, Fm Jhon 108 Somo, Sheena Mae Susana 109 Subigca, Jeremie Rodriguez 110 Superar, April Christian N/A 111 Tabañar, J Salvador 112 Tacardon, Rica Rubino 113 Tanaleon, Kerl John Altamera 114 Tayco, Marielle Bless Quitong 115 Tesoro, Malou Palomar 116 Torres, Daniel Dave Faisal 117 Tuminez, Justine Nicole Tulanda 118 Valenteros, Krisje Occeña 119 Vidallon, Cara Nicole Grecia 120 Villanueva, Mark Raff Enoceña 121 Yabut, Jay Mel Pabelico 122 Yson, Ruben Bercero 123 Zaulda, Mark Gerald Paclibar SPECIAL RESCUE FORCE No. Applicant’s Name 1 Abiday, Darwin Seravanes 2 Abong, Matt Gerona 3 Albolote, Homer Valencia 4 Aninacion, Christian Umiten 5 Araquil, Alfred Galvez 6 Are, Mildon Balajadia 7 Arenga, Chad Rocky Rueles 8 Asenjo, Jude Paolo Bique 9 Aurelio, Diestone Buhat 10 Barcenal, Catalino Roquero 11 Barnizo, Jhan Vid Excil 12 Batacandolo, Ronilo Bialen 13 Beliran, Jean Raven Besana 14 Bernas, Ian Jay Miranda 15 Blancia, Homer Domingo 16 Bulquerin, Marten Kenneth De Jose 17 Cabador, Ronilo Balbidades 18 Calawod, Ernie Tamagos 19 Capilitan, Jermel Capio 20 Chiva, Reymart Juanona 21 Coroz, Sandrick Gardose 22 Daliva, Kenneth Dela Cuesta 23 Delos Santos, Danielle Cordel 24 Dicdican, Miguel Adrian Jolin 25 Ditchoson, John Robert Aldemita 26 Dizon, Kenneth Jones Muya 27 Domingo, Roggie Alibadbarin 28 Enion, Eljoy Colendres 29 Fajanel, Renz Besana 30 Fantilanan, Ryan Arriola 31 Fernandez, Jonhel Palermo 32 Francisco, Jerome Magote 33 Francisco, Rudel Jhon Casabon 34 Frio, Robic Pauya 35 Funtinilla, John Paul Pirote 36 Gallardo, Noli Ricamonte 37 Gardose, Aron Fernandez 38 Gomez, Remar Capa 39 Gregorio, Bryan Odad 40 Horario, Kevin Dela Cruz 41 Huelar, Glimar Mingote 42 Iglesia, Mark Lloyd Pacayra 43 Laxinto, Jebbred Yamson 44 Lencioco, Zalben Francis Ingalla 45 Loquero, Marlo Bolido 46 Magbanua, Grycon Labiogo 47 Manzan, John Elmer Esparar 48 Mendoza, Jc Darrenz Guzarin 49 Nabua, Benito Jr. Fillone 50 Nacuspag, Jordan Javier 51 Nicolas, Kevin Bryan Catuiran 52 Niñora, John Paul Abraham 53 Pablico, Dale Canencia 54 Pacha, John Mark N/A 55 Pacis, Marianito Cuatriz continue reading : ATTENTION: FIRE OFFICER 1 (FO1) APPLICANTS Psychological Assessment and Drug Test

DILG Region VI conducts NGPA Training, Strengthens Procurement Competence Across Regions

DILG Region VI conducts NGPA Training, Strengthens Procurement Competence Across Regions The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region VI, through its Project Development and Management Unit (PDMU), successfully concluded its three-day training on the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA) on July 1, 2026, equipping government personnel with enhanced knowledge and practical guidance on the implementation of Republic Act No. 12009 and reinforcing the principles of transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public procurement. The training featured an in-depth session on Contract Implementation and Sanction Mechanism delivered by Ms. Jocelyn T. Genesila, MMBA, CPA, resource person from the Government Procurement Policy Board–Technical Support Office (GPPB-TSO). Her discussion emphasized the critical role of clear and comprehensive contract specifications in ensuring successful procurement implementation. Ms. Genesila also provided valuable insights into protest mechanisms, dispute resolution processes, and the administrative liabilities of both private entities and public officials, underscoring the importance of compliance with procurement laws and ethical standards throughout the contract lifecycle. The participants also gained a deeper understanding of the new and enhanced Modes of Procurement under Republic Act No. 12009 through a lecture by Engr. Stephanie N. Gadong of the GPPB-TSO and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office VI (DSWD VI). Her presentation comprehensively discussed the requirements, procedures, and appropriate application of each procurement mode under the new law. Engr. Gadong likewise highlighted the proactive role of the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) in conducting pre-bid conferences, encouraging BAC members to actively clarify procurement requirements rather than merely responding to questions raised by prospective bidders. This approach, she emphasized, promotes transparency, minimizes ambiguities, and helps ensure a more competitive and compliant procurement process. Demonstrating the broad relevance of the training, the regional initiative attracted participants from various regions across the country through Zoom and Facebook livestreams. The interactive discussions enabled participants to engage directly with the GPPB resource persons, raising practical concerns and receiving expert guidance on the implementation of the NGPA. The strong participation from across the country underscored the growing demand for capability-building initiatives that support the effective implementation of the New Government Procurement Act. By providing procurement practitioners with updated knowledge and practical expertise, DILG Region VI continues to contribute to strengthening institutional capacity and advancing good governance through transparent, accountable, and responsive public procurement practices.

DILG: Strong LGUs key to safeguarding the West Philippine Sea

DILG: Strong LGUs key to safeguarding the West Philippine Sea The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday underscored the vital role of local government units (LGUs) in supporting the country’s efforts in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as it led the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award in Lingayen, Pangasinan. Speaking during the event, DILG Assistant Secretary for International Relations Lilian M. De Leon emphasized that the West Philippine Sea is not solely a matter of maritime security or foreign affairs, but also one of effective local governance that strengthens coastal communities and advances national interests. “Bakit importante ang role ng LGUs sa usapin ng West Philippine Sea? Madalas kasi ang naiisip po natin kapag WPS, tungkol lang sa maritime security o foreign affairs. Pero, in reality, malaking bahagi po dito ang local governance,” De Leon said. “Sila, kasama tayo, ang magpoprotekta sa WPS while promoting sustainable development,” she added. De Leon highlighted the Department’s “Bayanihang Adhikain, Bayaning Aksyon Para sa Kanlurang Dagat ng Pilipinas” program, which empowers LGUs to take greater ownership of West Philippine Sea initiatives by helping frontline coastal provinces validate, enhance, and implement localized action plans that promote maritime governance, environmental protection, food security, and inclusive economic growth. To date, eight of the ten frontline coastal provinces have completed their provincial caravans: Palawan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Zambales, Pangasinan, Occidental Mindoro, and Bataan. Preparatory activities are also underway in Batangas and Batanes. Beyond the caravans, De Leon said the initiative has strengthened institutional mechanisms at the local level, with eight provinces establishing their respective West Philippine Sea Councils through ordinances, executive orders, and resolutions to ensure continuity, accountability, and sustainability of their programs. “Hindi natatapos ang inisyatibo pagkatapos lamang ng caravan. Nagkakaroon tayo ng institutionalized governance mechanisms na magtitiyak ng continuity, accountability, at sustainability ng mga programa ng bawat probinsya,” she said. As part of the commemoration, the DILG conferred Plaques of Recognition on the ten frontline coastal provinces in recognition of their sustained commitment to advancing good local governance and supporting initiatives related to the West Philippine Sea. De Leon also expressed the Department’s gratitude to its partner agencies and organizations, including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Tanggol Kalikasan, the Institute of Environmental Governance, and other stakeholders, for their continued collaboration in promoting sustainable and rules-based initiatives for the West Philippine Sea. The commemoration reaffirmed the government’s commitment, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., to upholding the country’s sovereignty and sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea through peaceful, lawful, and whole-of-government efforts while protecting the welfare of coastal communities that depend on the country’s marine resources.

Safer Cities Enforced with Due Process, Fairness, Respect for Rights – DILG, PNP

Safer Cities Enforced with Due Process, Fairness, Respect for Rights – DILG, PNP The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) assured the public that the Safer Cities initiative is being implemented with due process, fair enforcement, and full respect for the rights of every Filipino. Speaking during the recent DILG Kapihan media forum, DILG Assistant Secretary Brian Mey Tomas emphasized that the initiative focuses on awareness, compliance, and public protection—not arbitrary arrests or punitive actions against ordinary citizens. “Sa ilalim ng mga ordinansang gusto nating mapatupad, hindi outright arrest. Wala tayong direktiba na gumamit ng dahas o kahit anumang pag-o-oppress sa ating mga makikitang violators,” Tomas said. He said local government units (LGUs) and law enforcement agencies have been directed to enforce ordinances with fairness and compassion, supported by sustained information campaigns and the standard practice of warning first-time violators. PNP Spokesperson PCol. Allan Rae Co explained that the initiative follows the “warn, fine, case” protocol, wherein first-time violators are warned, repeat offenders may be fined under applicable ordinances, while serious violations may lead to the filing of appropriate charges. “Hindi po tayo directly nanghuhuli. Actually, the majority of those who violated were only warned,” Co said. Data from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) showed that during the first three months of the Safer Cities initiative in Metro Manila, 458,702 violators were warned and released, 272,277 were fined, and only 11,539 were subjected to formal charges. Co said the PNP continues to refine enforcement procedures in line with the directives of DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, including operational adjustments to address implementation gaps and strengthen safeguards against abuse. He emphasized that the initiative aims to protect communities, especially vulnerable sectors, by promoting safer public spaces and preventing crime. “This is not anti-poor. This is actually designed to protect the poorest of the poor,” Co said. The DILG, together with the PNP and local government units, reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the Safer Cities initiative firmly, fairly, and within the bounds of due process to build safer and more orderly communities nationwide.

Unified 911 reaches millions of Filipinos as DILG, SM expand nationwide awareness campaign

Unified 911 reaches millions of Filipinos as DILG, SM expand nationwide awareness campaign The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and SM Prime Holdings, Inc. on Thursday expanded the nationwide awareness campaign for the Unified 911 Emergency Hotline, bringing the government’s life-saving emergency information to millions more Filipinos through one of the country’s largest digital advertising networks. As part of the Department’s continuing collaboration with private sector partners to promote Unified 911, SM officially rolled out promotional materials across its nationwide network of digital advertising billboards and 398 SM Cinema screens, significantly widening the campaign’s reach and encouraging more Filipinos to remember a single number during emergencies. DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the partnership marks another important step in making the Unified 911 system more accessible to the public and strengthening the country’s culture of preparedness. “Eto na ang umpisa ng pagkakaisa ng bayan natin sa emergency response. Ito ang 911,” Remulla said during the launch of the Unified 911 for Resilience National Campaign. The Secretary emphasized that Unified 911 reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that every Filipino can seek help regardless of the language or dialect they speak. “Ang Unified 911 ay hindi unified dahil isang numero lang ang tinatawagan. Ito’y Unified 911 dahil ipinakikita natin na pinapahalagahan natin ang kultura at lenggwahe ng bawat rehiyon,” he said. Remulla also announced the DILG’s continuing efforts to strengthen emergency response capabilities through the planned procurement of additional emergency response vehicles for the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), ensuring responders are equipped to meet the growing demand for emergency services nationwide. Since its launch in 2025, the Unified 911 System has successfully handled more than 12.78 million calls through its National, Regional, and Satellite Command Centers, reflecting the growing public confidence in the country’s integrated emergency response system. The Secretary likewise underscored the Department’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the procurement of equipment supporting the Unified 911 program. “Ang 911 ay hindi lamang nag-uumpisa at natatapos sa isang numero. Nakikita ninyo ang ating mga bagong kagamitan – lahat ‘yan, tingnan ninyo kahit saan, pag-aralan ninyo lahat ng papel, lahat ng ginagastos natin, it is corruption free. Walang lagay, walang patong.” Remulla also called on members of the PNP and BFP to continue upholding professionalism, integrity, and excellence in public service, emphasizing that public confidence in the country’s emergency response system ultimately depends on the dedication and conduct of every responder. Also present during the launch were Pasay City Mayor Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano; Philippine National Police Chief PGen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr.; Bureau of Fire Protection Officer-in-Charge FCSUPT Wilberto Rico Neil A. Kwan Tiu; Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil L. Gavan; and SM Prime Holdings, Inc. Vice President for Mall Operations Engr. Junias M. Eusebio.

DILG Brings Roads, Schools, Water Systems to Former Conflict-Affected Barangays

DILG Brings Roads, Schools, Water Systems to Former Conflict-Affected Barangays Former conflict-affected barangays across the country are steadily closing development gaps, with nearly 16 million Filipinos benefiting from critical infrastructure and basic services delivered through the Local Government Support Fund–Support to Barangay Development Program (LGSF-SBDP), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said. In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to bring government assistance closer to underserved and formerly conflict-affected communities, the LGSF-SBDP continues to address long-standing development gaps by supporting critical local infrastructure projects that promote lasting peace and inclusive development. From 2021 to 2025, the program funded 7,922 projects worth Php 36.82 billion, benefiting nearly 16 million Filipinos nationwide. These include 3,882 farm-to-market roads, 696 school buildings, 1,403 water supply and sanitation systems, 626 health stations, and 949 rural electrification projects, bringing essential government services closer to communities that need them most. Among the communities benefiting from the program is Barangay Nato in Gubat, Sorsogon, where residents now enjoy a more reliable and sustainable water supply following the rehabilitation and improvement of their water system funded under the 2023 LGSF-SBDP. The upgraded facility has eased years of difficulty in accessing clean water, supporting household needs, sanitation, and livelihood activities that depend on a stable water source. Meanwhile, residents of Barangay Cogon in Bulusan, Sorsogon are now served by a newly completed two-storey health station funded through the 2024 LGSF-SBDP. Replacing an aging health center damaged by successive typhoons, the new facility is better equipped to provide basic healthcare services to more than 480 beneficiaries. For 2026, the LGSF-SBDP is set to expand its reach, with 1,297 additional projects already moving through the pre-procurement and procurement stages. Through sustained monitoring and evaluation, the DILG continues to ensure that LGSF-SBDP projects implemented by local government units in insurgency-cleared barangays are completed effectively and translated into meaningful development outcomes for communities.

Maagap Para Panatag: DILG urges Filipinos to make Unified 911 part of disaster preparedness

Maagap Para Panatag: DILG urges Filipinos to make Unified 911 part of disaster preparedness As the country observes National Disaster Resilience Month, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) urged Filipinos to make the Unified 911 Emergency Hotline an essential part of their disaster preparedness, stressing that timely reporting can save lives and prevent emergencies from worsening. The Department said resilience is not built through infrastructure and government response alone. It also depends on citizens knowing what to do and acting quickly when emergencies occur. Through the Unified 911 Hotline, the public can immediately connect with police, fire, medical, and rescue services using a single nationwide number, reducing delays and improving coordination when every second counts. “Preparedness begins with knowing where to call during emergencies. Unified 911 empowers every Filipino to become an active partner in saving lives and strengthening community resilience,” the DILG said. Launched in 2025 under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Unified 911 forms part of the government’s efforts to modernize emergency response and build safer and more resilient communities. The hotline is designed to provide faster and more coordinated assistance during typhoons, fires, accidents, medical emergencies, violent incidents, and other situations requiring immediate intervention. Since its launch, the system has accommodated almost 12 million calls nationwide, reflecting increased public awareness of the hotline and the importance of timely emergency reporting. Recent incidents have shown how prompt calls to Unified 911 can help responders save lives and limit further harm. In Tondo, Manila, a caller reported a fire at a commercial establishment, prompting the deployment of 14 firetrucks within six minutes. Although the blaze reached the third alarm, firefighters were able to contain the fire with no reported casualties. In Dasmariñas City, a physical altercation escalated into a shooting incident. Authorities responded within five minutes after the incident was reported through Unified 911, apprehending the suspect and ensuring that the 60-year-old victim received immediate medical treatment. In Aringay, La Union, first responders arrived within two minutes after a stabbing incident was reported through the hotline, preventing further escalation and providing prompt medical assistance to the victim. The DILG said these cases demonstrate a central lesson in disaster resilience: communities become safer when citizens report emergencies immediately and responders are mobilized without delay. The Department emphasized that disaster resilience is a shared responsibility between government and the public. While government agencies continue to strengthen emergency response capabilities, citizens are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Unified 911, remain calm when making a report, provide accurate information, and use the hotline responsibly. “Sa oras ng sakuna, gawing sandigan ang 911. Sa bawat maagap na tawag, nakatutulong tayong bumuo ng mas panatag at ligtas na komunidad,” the DILG said.

DILG: LGUs’ enforcement of Safe Spaces Act key to protecting victims of gender-based sexual harassment

DILG: LGUs’ enforcement of Safe Spaces Act key to protecting victims of gender-based sexual harassment The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) underscored the critical role of local government units (LGUs) in protecting victims of gender-based sexual harassment through the effective implementation of the Safe Spaces Act, stressing that local Anti-Sexual Harassment (ASH) Desks serve as frontline mechanisms for accessible, timely, and victim-centered assistance. Speaking during the recent DILG KAPihan, Assistant Secretary Atty. Brian Mey R. Tomas said LGUs are mandated under the law to establish ASH Desks, designate Anti-Sexual Harassment Enforcers, and put in place reporting mechanisms that ensure victims can safely seek assistance. “Maraming obligasyon ang mga LGU sa ilalim ng batas na ito bilang mga primary enforcers,” Tomas said. Latest DILG monitoring data showed that 1,175 cities and municipalities and 27,264 barangays nationwide have established ASH Desks, while 25,887 Anti-Sexual Harassment Enforcers have been designated to support local implementation of the law. Tomas emphasized that the Safe Spaces Act protects all individuals from gender-based sexual harassment, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics (SOGIESC). “Kung makaranas sila ng harassment dahil sa kanilang sexual orientation or gender expression, pasok ito sa Safe Spaces Act, kaya puwede silang magsumbong sa ilalim ng batas na ito,” he said. He added that acts of harassment motivated by a person’s SOGIESC are covered by the law and may be reported through ASH Desks and other established reporting mechanisms. He likewise noted that local anti-discrimination ordinances enacted by several LGUs further strengthen protection by providing additional legal remedies against discrimination. According to Tomas, ASH Desks are intended to provide safe, accessible, and responsive avenues for victims to report cases of gender-based sexual harassment and seek appropriate assistance. The Assistant Secretary said the DILG continues to monitor LGU compliance with the Safe Spaces Act while supporting local governments through capacity-building initiatives and information campaigns to ensure the law is properly implemented. He also observed that despite the enactment of the Safe Spaces Act in 2019, some local officials and frontline implementers still need a better understanding of what constitutes sexual harassment and their responsibilities under the law. “Medyo marami pa tayong kailangang ipaintindi tungkol sa nature ng anti-bastos law. Kasi ito ay comparatively bagong regulation. Pero importante na maintindihan nila hindi lang kung ano yung dapat nilang gawin, kundi kung bakit may ganitong batas in the first place,” Tomas said. The DILG likewise encouraged individuals who experience gender-based sexual harassment to report incidents through their respective LGU ASH Desks and other appropriate reporting channels. By strengthening local implementation of the Safe Spaces Act and enhancing public awareness, the Department said LGUs can help foster safer, more inclusive, and gender-responsive communities across the country.